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Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta (Easy, Budget-Friendly Dinner)
If you’re looking for a comforting, creamy pasta dish that’s easy to make and gentle on your grocery budget, this Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is exactly what you need. Made with simple pantry staples, tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a rich Parmesan cream sauce, this recipe delivers big flavor without expensive ingredients.
Perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or meal prep, this pasta comes together in under 30 minutes and tastes like something you’d order at a restaurant—at a fraction of the cost.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
- Affordable ingredients – no fancy or hard-to-find items
- Quick and easy – ready in about 30 minutes
- Family-friendly – creamy, mild, and comforting
- One-pan sauce – less cleanup
- Customizable – use what you already have at home
This is one of those recipes that saves dinner when you don’t know what to cook but still want something filling and satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You only need a handful of everyday ingredients to make this delicious pasta:
- Pasta (penne, rotini, fettuccine, or spaghetti all work)
- Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-size pieces
- Broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- Butter or olive oil
- Garlic, minced
- Heavy cream (or a mix of cream and milk to save money)
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper
- Garlic powder
- Italian seasoning
Optional additions: red pepper flakes, onion, mushrooms, or a splash of pasta water for extra silkiness.
How to Make Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water if needed for the sauce.
Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken
Season chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Heat butter or olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Broccoli
In the same skillet, add broccoli florets. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. This keeps the broccoli flavorful and not mushy.
Step 4: Build the Creamy Sauce
Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream (or cream and milk mixture) and bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low.
Step 5: Add Parmesan Cheese
Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes smooth, thick, and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then add the drained pasta. Toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated in the creamy sauce. Add a splash of pasta water if the sauce feels too thick.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve hot with extra Parmesan cheese on top. Optional garnish: chopped parsley or cracked black pepper.
Tips for the Best Creamy Pasta
- Don’t overcook the broccoli – tender-crisp gives the best texture
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for smoother melting
- Lower heat before adding cheese to prevent clumping
- Stretch the sauce with a little milk or pasta water if needed
Cheap Recipe Variations
This recipe is perfect for stretching ingredients:
- Swap chicken for rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken
- Use frozen broccoli to save money
- Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or milk + butter
- Add peas, spinach, or carrots for extra veggies
What to Serve With Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
- Garlic bread or toast
- Simple green salad
- Steamed vegetables
- Roasted carrots or zucchini
Storage and Reheating
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days
- Reheat gently on the stove or microwave with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is proof that you don’t need expensive ingredients to make a rich, comforting, and satisfying meal. It’s easy, budget-friendly, and guaranteed to become a regular on your dinner rotation.
If you’re collecting cheap dinner recipes that taste amazing, don’t lose this one—you’ll want to make it again and again. 🍝💚
If you want, I can also:
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